Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities

Disabilities. The University may not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment against any individual on account of that individual’s disability. Several statutes set out the legal responsibilities of the University with regard to students and employees with disabilities. These include the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices law.

Employment of Qualified Individuals with Disabilities. Both federal civil rights and state fair employment law prohibit discrimination in employment against qualified individuals with disabilities. Such discrimination is prohibited in all employment matters: hiring, promotion, pay, and other privileges. For these purposes, an “individual with a disability” is defined as an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities; a person who has a history or record of such an impairment; or a person who is perceived by others as having such an impairment. A “qualified individual with a disability” is defined as an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the employment position. “Reasonable accommodation” is defined as modifications or adjustments to a job application process; to the work environment; or to the manner or circumstances under which the position is customarily performed. Accommodations that create an undue hardship to the employer are not required.

The University’s Office for Equal Opportunity Programs is responsible for implementing the University’s Employment Accommodation Program for Persons with Disabilities. The Office coordinates the accommodation process using a case-management format. Contact the Office for more information at 432-0849 or visit its website: http://www.yale.edu/equalopportunity/index.html.

Educational Programs. Federal and state laws and regulations also prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in the provision of educational programs. For these purposes, a “qualified individual with a disability” is defined as an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable modifications to policies or the provision of auxiliary aids and services meets the essential eligibility requirements for the programs or activities. “Reasonable modifications” include modifications in policies, practices or procedures when the modifications are necessary to afford service to individuals with disabilities unless the making of the modification would fundamentally alter the nature of those goods or services. Modifications that create an undue burden for the institution are not required.

The University’s Resource Office on Disabilities facilitates individual accommodations for students with disabilities and serves as a resource by providing technical assistance, information and disability awareness training to those in the Yale Community. Contact the Office for more information at 432-2324 or visit its website: http://www.yale.edu/rod/.

Federal and state laws and regulations, including building codes, also mandate that the University meet certain construction requirements for new and renovated buildings that provide access to individuals with disabilities. Certain barriers to access in existing buildings are to be removed where such removal is easily accomplishable and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense.

The Provost's Advisory Committee on Resources for Students and Employees with Disabilities provides the University with advice and assistance in fulfilling its commitment to maintain an environment that is accessible and supportive of the work and scholarship of all students, faculty and staff. Information about the Committee is available from the Office for Equal Opportunity Programs.